11 Little Hacks That'll Make Your Apartment Feel Huge

Despite your best efforts, your home's become cluttered up over the years, resulting in a cramped feeling you can't seem to shake. But you—yes, you—can create a functional and personal space, thanks to Small Apartment Hacks author Jenna Mahoney's tweaks, each of which will make your house feel a little more mansion-like.

Have a vision

Have a vision

A surefire way to overcrowd a small space is by trying to do too much. “Avoid a hodgepodge of style, stuff, and furniture that just looks like an overcrowded mishmash,” writes Mahoney. Instead, step back for a three-minute meditation to figure out exactly what you want. Then start taking notes, gathering images, and sketching out your space. Unsure of the right vibe? “When in doubt, go classic,” Mahoney says. “Choose furniture with sleek, clean lines in neutral colors.”

Make it yours

Make it yours

Once you’ve figured out the general direction you’d like your space to take, think about you. “Identify the three things that you love most—beauty products, baking cupcakes, reading first editions—and use them as anchors to your design aesthetic and organization,” writes Mahoney. “Surfers, use your boards as design accents. … Fashionistas, use a wall as a gallery space for bags.” This ensures your home will be functional and reflect your quirks.